Modular pack system with accessory couplers

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure details a modular pack system having a hip belt and a pack accessory. The hip belt includes an upper stay strap and a lower stay strap. The upper stay strap is secured to the hip belt, the upper stay strap forming attachment loops. A lower stay strap is secured to the hip belt below the upper stay strap. The lower stay strap forms attachment loops as well. The pack accessory includes an attachment strap and an accessory loop. The attachment strap includes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the attachment strap is secured to the pack accessory. The distal end includes a fastener thereon. The attachment strap extends transverse to the upper and lower stay straps and is routable through the upper and lower stay straps. The accessory loop is secured to the pack accessory. The accessory loop is positionable between the upper and lower stay straps such that the attachment strap is routable through the accessory loop between the upper and lower stay straps.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending applicationSer. No. 09,927,433 filed Aug. 10, 2001, which claims priority of prior,co-pending application Ser. No. 60/224,445, filed Aug. 10, 2000. Bothprior applications are herein incorporated by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to packs for recreational, sport,hunting, and exercise use, which are used to carry supplies orpossessions that are needed on a hike, ride, walk, horseback ride, etc.More specifically, the invention relates to accessory coupler systemsfor securing bags or other accessories to a belt or other pack harnesssystem.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many backpacks have been developed for carrying equipment, food, andpersonal items during hiking, walking, climbing, and other outdoorsports and recreational activities. The term “backpacking” has becomenearly synonymous with hiking while carrying supplies and equipment onone's back. The technique of carrying supplies/equipment in a backpackhas many drawbacks, however. The backpack moves the user's center ofgravity upwards and backwards, which tends to throw the user off-balanceand makes many activities clumsy, difficult, and sometimes evendangerous. The backpack attaches a large, weighty object in back of theuser, which, when the user is moving quickly, can create unpredictableforces on the user. For example, wearing a backpack while climbing orhiking over steep or difficult terrain greatly increases the chance ofthe user falling. Further, the pleasure of hiking, running, climbing,biking, horseback riding, and other activities is diminished if the usermust be more conscience of his motions and his balance due to abackpack.

Attempts at pack systems for the leg have been made, but none offer theefficiency, comfort, and safety of the present invention during a widevariety of outdoor activities, including hiking, running, horsebackriding, and skiing. Clem (U.S. Pat. No. 4,848,624) discloses a “ThighMountable Small Modular Pack System with Demountable InterchangeablePouches.” The Clem device is a rectangular, rigid box structure, withseveral compartments and lids. Clem discloses a single buckled strap forsurrounding a user's conventional belt, or a waist belt that integrallyextends from the device. The Clem device has a rectangular, planar backplate that does not conform to the user's thigh. The present inventorbelieves the angular, rectangular, and thick shape of the Clem devicewould cause discomfort to the user's leg and would cause discomfort tothe user's arm when the arm swings back and forth, thus making any butthe most sedentary use impractical and uncomfortable. Berman (U.S. Pat.No. 4,303,187) discloses a “Multiple Pocket Clothing Accessory,” whichincludes a single, broad upper portion of cloth extending integrallyfrom the pocket and around a user's conventional belt.

Modular pack systems necessarily involve coupling bags or otheraccessories to a pack or harness system. Attachment methods to date havesometimes been cumbersome or insecure. An attachment system should beeasy to use while firmly coupling the accessory to the harness, whethera belt or back harness or pack. Buckles can securely couple accessories,but are rigid and, thus, nonconforming to the user. Therefore, they canbe uncomfortable in certain situations. Buckle rigidity also relates totoughness. A buckle may break when impacted with a hard object or whenexcessively bent. It may be difficult to snuggly secure an accessorywith a buckle attachment in some attachment arrangements. Buckles orother such attachment devices may also not allow a multitude ofattachment positions for an accessory, as a receiver buckle may have tobe attached at each optional buckle location. Buckles can also beexpensive.

Thus a need exists for a flexible coupler system that allows snug,secure attachment of accessory items, such as bags, with multi-positionoptions on a belt or other harness. The system should also belightweight, durable, and comfortable with low cost of construction andease of use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an attachment device for securing anaccessory to a pack system having a first stay loop. The attachmentdevice includes a first strap and an accessory loop. The first strap issecured to the accessory. The first strap is flexible and has a widthsufficiently narrowed to be insertable through the first stay loop. Theaccessory loop is secured adjacent to the first strap. The accessoryloop is positionable adjacent the first stay loop. The first strap isrouted through the first stay loop and through the accessory loop forattachment of the accessory to the pack system.

In one preferred aspect of the invention, the first strap includes aproximal end secured to the accessory and a distal end. The attachmentsystem further includes a releasable fastener secured to the distal endof the first strap. In one preferred embodiment, the releasable fasteneris a hook and loop fastener. The releasable fastener is securable to theaccessory after being routed through the accessory loop. The first strapoverlaps back on itself after passing through the stay loop and theaccessory loop.

In one aspect of the invention, the pack system includes a second stayloop. In this embodiment, the first strap is routed through the secondstay loop after being routed through the accessory loop. Preferably, thesecond stay loop is spaced from the first stay loop. In a further aspectof the invention, the attachment device further includes a second strapand a second accessory loop. As with the first, the second strap issecured to the accessory. The second strap is flexible and has a widthsufficiently narrowed to be insertable through the second stay loop. Thesecond accessory loop is secured adjacent the second strap. A secondaccessory loop is positionable adjacent a second stay loop. The secondstrap is routed through the second stay loop and through the secondaccessory loop for attachment of the accessory to the pack system.

The invention may also be summarized as being a modular pack systemhaving a hip belt and a pack accessory. The hip belt includes an upperstay strap and a lower stay strap. The upper stay strap is secured tothe hip belt, the upper stay strap forming attachment loops. A lowerstay strap is secured to the hip belt below the upper stay strap. Thelower stay strap forms attachment loops as well. The pack accessoryincludes an attachment strap and an accessory loop. The attachment strapincludes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of theattachment strap is secured to the pack accessory. The distal endincludes a fastener thereon. The attachment strap extends transverse tothe upper and lower stay straps and is routable through the upper andlower stay straps. The accessory loop is secured to the pack accessory.The accessory loop is positionable between the upper and lower staystraps such that the attachment strap is routable through the accessoryloop between the upper and lower stay straps.

In a further aspect of the invention, the attachment strap is loopedback onto itself and held with the fastener at the distal end thereof.The pack accessory may have a buckle or ring secured to the proximal endof the attachment strap. In one embodiment, the accessory is a bagsecured to the proximal end of the attachment strap. In such anembodiment, the distal end of the attachment strap is releaseablyfastened to the bag after extending through the accessory loop.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the modular pack includes asecond attachment strap and a second accessory loop. Similar to thefirst attachment strap and accessory loop, the second attachment strapincludes a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the secondattachment strap is secured to the pack accessory. The distal endincludes a fastener thereon. The attachment strap extends transverse tothe upper and lower stay straps and is routable through the upper andlower stay straps. A second accessory loop is secured to the packaccessory as well. The second accessory loop is positionable between theupper and lower stay straps such that the attachment strap is routablethrough the second accessory loop between the upper and lower staystraps.

A further feature of the invention includes a hip belt having anelongate member, a first strap, and a buckle. The elongate member hassufficient length to extend along a user's back and hips. The elongatemember includes first and second ends, an inner side, and an outer side.The first strap has a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end issecured to the first end of the elongate member. The distal end has ahook and loop material thereon. The buckle slidably engaged with thefirst strap. The elongate member includes a hook and loop materialsecured to the inner side of the first end thereof. The material isengageable with the distal end of the first strap. Thus, pressurebetween the elongate member and the user securely holds the first strapin place.

In one preferred aspect of the invention, a second strap is providedhaving a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is secured tothe second end of the elongate member. The distal end has a hook andloop material thereon with the elongate member second end having amating hook and loop material.

The hip belt thus described further may include a stay strap secured tothe outer side of the elongate member. A stay strap forms loops thereonwith the hip belt further having an accessory coupler. The accessorycoupler includes an attachment strap and an accessory loop. Theattachment strap is dimensioned to extend through the stay loops. Theattachment strap extends through the accessory loop after passingthrough at least one stay loop.

As will be readily appreciated from the foregoing summary, the inventionprovides a modular pack system for attachment of accessories thereto. Asystem includes couplers which are flexible and secure, but can beeasily released as desired or release of the accessory or formodification of the system attachment locations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention aredescribed in detail below with reference to the following drawings,wherein:

FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of one embodiment of the inventedmodular bag system on a user;

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, whereinthe left thigh bag of the system is pivoted to the front with the leg ofthe user;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of another embodiment of a modular bag system,including right and left thigh bags, right and left small side bags, anda rear bag, all on one embodiment of an invented hip belt, wherein thesystem is unattached from a user and flattened-out for viewing;

FIG. 4 is an alternative embodiment of the invented modular bag system,including a hip belt and two side bags with contoured shape, wherein thesystem is unattached from a user and flattened-out for viewing;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the back surface of the right side bag of FIG.4, showing a loop for sliding-on to the belt;

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the back surface of the rear, center bag of theembodiment of FIG. 3, showing a loop for sliding-on to the belt;

FIG. 7A is a rear view of an alternative thigh bag, with a single loopat its top for sliding-on to a hip belt, and a flexible extensionbetween the loop and bag;

FIG. 7B is a rear view of an alternative thigh bag, with a single loopfor sliding onto the hip belt, and two flexible extensions from the loopto the bag;

FIG. 7C is a front view of an alternative system according to theinvention, wherein each thigh bag has two flexible straps that eachconnect independently to the belt;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one narrow- and thin-topped bag,according to the invention, including compression straps;

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of the bag embodiment of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a front view of the bag embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative bag system according tothe invention, including two thigh bags and two center rear straps;

FIG. 12 illustrates one embodiment of a pivot-axis connector that alsoincludes a flip-up features;

FIG. 13A illustrates one embodiment of a pivot-axis connector;

FIG. 13B illustrates one embodiment of a two flexible-strap connector;

FIG. 13C illustrates one embodiment of a single flexible-strapconnector;

FIG. 14A illustrates one embodiment of a hip belt, with snap-onpivot-axis style connectors;

FIG. 14B illustrates another embodiment of a hip belt, withsnap-together buckle, flexible-strap connectors;

FIG. 14C illustrates another embodiment of a hip belt, which is a beltsleeve with connectors portions, wherein a conventional belt may be slidinto the belt sleeve;

FIG. 15 is a side-elevational view of a hip belt with an adjustmentstrap;

FIG. 16A is a side-elevational view of a hip belt with an accessory bagattached;

FIG. 16B is a side-elevational view of a hip belt with an accessory bagattached;

FIG. 16C is a rear-elevational view of the accessory bag of FIGS. 16Aand 16B;

FIG. 17A is a side-elevational view of a coupler of the presentinvention with the attached hip belt in cross section; and

FIG. 17B is a side-elevational view of a coupler of the presentinvention with the attached hip belt in cross section.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the drawings, there are shown preferred, but not the only,embodiments of the invented leg pack system 10. Preferably, the leg packsystem includes bags and carried objects that are positionedsubstantially between the waist and the knee, and not below the knee.Preferably, the leg pack system includes bags and carried objects atboth sides of the user, substantially equally distributed between rightand left side, and optional small bags and objects on the back or thefront.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, a preferred modular leg pack system 10comprises a right thigh bag 14 and left thigh bag 14′, on a hip belt 40that is fastened around the user's waist or upper hips. The thigh bags14, 14′ extend from a few inches below the belt to a few inches abovethe knees, and wrap part way around the legs. Each bag has a strap 32,32′ fastened around the leg above the knee, with the leg strap 32, 32′fasteners easily reachable by the user from the front.

FIG. 2 illustrates the leg pack system 10 in use and how the thigh bags14, 14′ pivot relative to the hip belt 40 to move with the user's legs.As discussed later in this Detailed Description, the connection meansfor the thigh bags 14, 14′ preferably includes a pivot feature, whichmay comprise a connector with a pivot axis or a connector that isflexible and sized for allowing a bag to swing/pivot in a planegenerally parallel to the belt, that is, to swing/pivot with the leg. InFIG. 2, the left leg and left thigh bag are pivoted so fat forward thatthe leading pivotal connection of the thigh bag is both pivoted androtated up against the belt, as schematically portrayed in FIG. 12.

In FIGS. 1 and 2, one may see a left thigh bag 14′ front surface 12, andleading side 16 and trailing side 18. The thigh bags 14, 14′ mayoptionally include a thin and narrow top end 22 and a thicker and widerbottom end 24 (see FIGS. 8-10). Leg strap support panels 30 extend outfrom the bag, perpendicular to the length of the bag. The leg straps 32,32′ extend out from the support panels 30, and may each have a thin,curved-to-leg contour quick-release buckle. The panels 30 tend toprovide a secure attachment point, plus they prevent the strap 32, 32′from sagging down the leg. With panels 30, a firm, sure, andpredictably-placed leg strap system provides comfortable and effectiveconnection to the leg above the knee.

In FIG. 3, there is shown a modular bag system 100 according to theinvention, which shows two thigh bags 14, 14′ a center rear bag 15, andtwo small side bags 17. The two thigh bags 14, 14′ are connected by aconnector means that includes two connectors 31 made of upper portions34, 34′ and bottom portions 50 that connect together, in aquickly-attachable and quickly-releasable manner. Each connector 31 mayinclude a pivot axis 60, which in the preferred embodiment, comprisesthe bottom portion 50 rotating around the protrusion on the upperportion onto which the bottom portion snaps.

FIG. 3 (and also FIGS. 14A and 14B to good advantage) illustrate theposition and preferred angle of two upper portions of connectors 34, 34′on a hip belt 40. Preferably, the leading upper portion 34 extendsgenerally downward vertically from the belt when it is on the user, thatis, generally perpendicular to the length of the belt. The trailingupper portion 34′ is preferably non-parallel to the leading upperportion 34, that is, preferably angled toward the leading upper portion34 (toward the user's front when in use). The preferred angle is in therange of about 25-45 degrees relative to parallel to the leading portion34 (or, that is, about 65 to 45 down from the longitudinal axis of thebelt), but other angles may be optimal for various bags and users. Thispreferred angled connector provides an attachment point for the bagwhich tends to position the bag properly on the thigh, and which allowsthe bag to easily pivot forward during use.

The leg straps 32, 32′ of the thigh bags in FIG. 3 are shown to havetheir lengths substantially located on the trailing sides of the bags.This way, the straps 32, 32′ can extend around the inside of the leg tonear the front of the leg, for easy fastening by the user. The leg strapsupport panels 30, in effect, allow a firmer (compared to the legstraps), thin and flat structure to extend out from the bottom of thebag for a total coverage for bag and panels of about 180 degrees aroundthe leg. Because of the firm panels, which flex in one direction (aroundthe surface of the leg) the leg straps do not sag or shift, andexcessive tightening of the leg strap around the leg is unnecessary.

The rear center bag 15 in FIG. 3 slides onto the belt 40 by means of itsrear loop 41 on its back surface, which is illustrated in FIG. 6. Thisloop may be substantially the same length as the width of the bag 15,because this rear bag need not, and preferably does not, pivot relativeto the hip belt.

The small side bags 17 also slide onto the belt 40 by means of rear loop(not shown). The side bags 17 are preferably sized to slide over, andfit between, the upper portions 34, 34′ of the connectors. The upperportions 34, 34′ may be flipped up against the main body of the belt tomove out of the way of the bag 17 loop, and, when the bag 17 is in placebetween the upper portions 34, 34′, the upper portions may be flippeddown for use with thigh bags 14. The connectors may then serve to holdthe small side bags in place along the length of the belt.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, right and left bags do not necessarily need tobe identical, and the modularity of the invented system allows the bagsto be switched or changed or eliminated. Balancing the size and numberof bags between right and left is certainly desirable, for ease ofmovement, safety, and to prevent off-balance walking or damage tomuscles or joints. However, the accessory features may be changed, forexample, a left thigh bag with outer compression straps 20, and a rightthigh bag without compression straps but with multiple outer pockets. Aleft side bag may include a main zippered pocket, while the right sidebag may include multiple outer flaps/pockets. Preferably, no matter whatstyle the various bags are, they include easily assessable openings,which the user may reach without removing or loosening the belt 40.

In FIG. 4 is shown an embodiment including a hip belt 40 with two mirrorimage contoured side bags 62. These side bags slide onto an end of thebelt by means of an elongated, tapered sleeve 64 on the back surface ofeach bag 62, shown in FIG. 5. The contoured lower perimeter 66 of thebag 62 and its small leading end allow free and comfortable movement ofthe leg, while the larger trailing end positioned at the rear of theupper thigh, out of the way of the leg swing, provides packing volume.

A user may find the invented bag system advantageous in walking,jumping, and climbing. The thigh packs move naturally with the user'slegs, without shifting and wobbling. Center of gravity is kept low andcentered between left and right (assuming the user has properly packedthe thigh bags to about the same weight), in fact, slightly loweredbelow the natural center of gravity for a person. One can see that thetotal volume of pack capacity in the invented system is quite large,sufficient for most sporting, recreational, and day-long activities.With the easy assess provided to the bags, it is to access the thighbags and side bags and the contents of the bags without taking the bagsoff of the belt, and without any twisting of the body. Therefore, manyactivities may be comfortably and conveniently undertaken with the packsystem, and with the invented leg pack system rather than a conventionalbackpack system, even biking, skiing, running, or other sports becomeeasy again.

As suggested in FIGS. 1 and 2, the construction of the thigh bags, andtheir connection to the hip belt, are preferably adapted for easy andsmooth pivoting relative to the belt. This may be done by variousconnectors, for example, the pivot-axis style pivoting connectors shownin FIG. 1-3, 11, 12, 13A, and 14A, or the flexible style pivotingconnectors shown in FIGS. 7A-7C, 13B, 13C and 14B.

In the pivot-axis style connector (best depicted in FIGS. 3 and 14A),the upper portion 34, 34′ of the connector comprises a webbing upperstrap 52 and a rigid, generally planar, top snap-together rigid member54. The bottom portion 50 of the connector comprises the rigid,generally planar, bottom snap-together member 56 and a short flexiblebottom strap 58. Upper strap 52 is sewn to the hip belt near the bottomedge of the belt, as shown in the drawings, and looped through theelongated slot in top member 54. The bottom strap 56 is sewn to the topof the thigh bag and looped through the elongated slot in bottom member56. Both the leading connector (L) and the trailing connector (T)preferably have similar construction, but may be installed on the beltat different angles, as discussed above. The leading connector (L) hangsgenerally straight downward, and the trailing connector (T) is angledslightly forward toward the leading connector. This helps with strengthand durability of the connector system, as the two connectors thereforeform a V-shape with the top of the bag at the point of the V. Also, thisprovides good aesthetics for the connectors relative to the curvature ofthe bottom edge of the belt.

Preferably, snap-together, rigid members 54 and 56 feature a pivot axis60 near the center of the connector. Members 54 and 56 releaseablyconnect together, in this embodiment, by one member having an aperturesliding over the pivot axis “post” on the other member, like a“suspender and button hook” system. When connected together, the twomembers lie in generally a single plane, or in two very close parallelplanes in the preferred embodiment, which is/are herein referred to asthe “pivot plane(s)”. Because of the placement of the hip belt on theuser's body, arid the connector's position relative to the belt, thepivot plane(s) is parallel to the plane of the outer thigh or clothingon the thigh. The two members 54 and 56 pivot relative to each other inthat pivot plane(s), typically with the bottom member 56 pivoting aroundthe post of the top member 54. In addition, as may be seen particularlyin the movement of the leading connector (L), the flexible straps or theseem between the flexible straps and the belt and the bag may bend, toallow the rigid connector to flip upwards against the belt, thusallowing the bag to comfortably move up higher against the belt when theleg is far forward (see FIGS. 1 and 12, for example). With these actionsof pivoting and flipping-up, the connectors provide greatly improvedaction for the bag, and greatly improved durability and comfort,compared to what would result from simply a strap of webbing connectingthe bag to the belt. This way, the webbing straps or other extensionmember(s) of the connector do not twist or bend. As stated above, a fewinches of strap is desired to place the bag at about 2.5-3 inches fromthe bottom edge of the belt, but the strap is not needed for pivoting.In fact, the bottom rigid member 56 could be directly sewn/attached tothe bag, without a strap 58, in such away that the bottom rigid member56 can rotate relative to the bag. Or, the top rigid member 54 could bedirectly sewn/attached to the belt, in such a way that the top rigidmember 54 can rotate relative to the belt. For sake of clarity, hereinthe term “pivot” is used to describe the action of the connection thatallows the connector (or part of the connector) to swing in a planegenerally parallel to the belt surface (and the outer thigh and clothingsurface), and the term “rotate” is used to describe the action of theconnector as it flips up at point 3 in FIG. 12, and the action of thetop of the bag relative to the connector at point 2 in FIG. 12. Thus,one may see that preferably each top connector includes three axis ofpivoting/rotation, wherein typically two (points 2 and 3 in FIG. 12) aretransverse (normal) to the main connector pivot (point 1 in FIG. 12).

The preferred pivot axis 60 is a protruding button or knob that extendsout from the upper connector on the belt, combined with an aperture inthe lower connector that snaps around/onto, and pivots at least 90degrees (and preferably more) around, the protruding button/knob. Theprotruding button/knob, and, therefore, the pivot axis extendshorizontally and laterally out from the belt generally at the side ofthe user.

In use, when the leg is moved from a completely vertical position, thethigh pack travels with it. The pivot connectors typically pivot forwardat the pivot axis, and, then, as the leg movement reaches fartherforward, the leading connector flips up, as described above. When theleg returns to the vertical position and then a rearward position, theconnector flips down and pivots at the pivot axis in the opposite,rearward direction.

It should be noted that other pivotal connectors may be used besides theones shown in the Figures, and the pivot axis does not necessarily needto be in the center of the connector, but may be nearer the bag ornearer the belt, for example. Preferably, but not always necessarily,the pivot-axis style upper connector portions are substantially rigid,which helps prevent the bag from riding tip on the leg, and helpsprevent the bag wobbling.

The flexible-pivot style of connector is illustrated by examples inFIGS. 7A, 7B, 13B, and 13C. Instead of rigid, pivoting connectorsforming a pivot axis, the flexible straps shown in these Figures mayserve to flex, and, therefore, to allow the thigh bag to pivot relativeto the belt. Two flexible straps are preferred for this style ofconnector, wherein each strap is independently attached to the belt orwherein the multiple straps are attached to a single loop that extendsaround the belt. The embodiment of FIG. 7A and 13C illustrates a singleloop around the belt and a single flexible strap to the bag. Preferably,for security and load-spreading, either multiple flexible straps or awider single flexible strap is preferred.

FIGS. 8-10 illustrate a thigh bag 114 with a narrow and thin top, whichis preferred by some users. This narrow- and thin-topped bag does notsignificantly interfere with arm motion even during more extremeactivities.

A hydration unit, jacket, or other items may be held on the hip beltcentral rear section, for example, in the tightenable rear straps 42 oneither side of center, shown in FIG. 11. A hydration unit reservoir maybe attached to the centrally-located rear straps 42 and the hydrationtube may be clipped to the front chest of the user.

Padding is preferably included in the back wall of the bag and in theleg strap support panels, as this adds some rigidity to the bag, andcomfort for the user. The resulting back wall (also referred to as the“back plane” of the bag) is preferably generally planar, with enoughflexibility that it can flex around the curvature of the thigh,preferably all along the length of the bag. This curvature contributesto the bag fitting closely to the thigh and movement naturally with theleg without wobble or other movements relative to the leg that wouldunbalance the user.

FIG. 14C illustrates that a “hip belt” according to the invention mayinclude, in some embodiments, a sleeve that slides onto a conventionalbelt. This serves, in effect, as an adapter to make a conventional beltusable as a hip belt for the invented bag system. Preferably, the sleeveincludes means for securing the sleeve to the conventional belt, eitherby friction, by fasteners, or other anchoring systems.

FIG. 15 illustrates a side elevational view of a portion of a hip belt210 of the present invention that includes an adjustable belt attachmentstrap 212. More completely, hip belt 210 includes a belt attachmentstrap 212, a buckle 214, an inner side 216, and an outer side (notshown). Hip belt 210 may be used as part of the harness system of abackpack, hip pack, leg packs, or other harness system. The elongateportion of hip belt 210 surrounds the waist of the user and may befastened thereabout with buckle 214 attached to a complimentary buckleon the other end thereof (not shown).

The width of hip belt 210 is sufficient to comfortably secure the loadaround the waist of the user and may be contoured to the hips of theuser. Hip belt 210 may include padding therein with a more rugged outershell such as a thick nylon fabric.

Belt attachment strap 212 is preferably constructed of nylon webbingmaterial. The belt attachment strap 212 includes a proximal end 218fixedly secured to inner side 216 of hip belt 210. Strap 212 alsoincludes a distal end 220. A hook and loop fastener 222 is secured tothe inner sides of belt attachment strap 212 such that the sides may besecured together. Alternatively, half of the hook and loop fastener 222may simply be secured to a first end 223 of the inner side 216 of hipbelt 210 with the opposite hook and loop fastener secured to the insideof belt attachment strap 212 such that they may be joined together.Since the belt attachment strap 212 is secured to the inner side 216 ofhip belt 210, pressure between inner side 216 and the user helps securethe position of belt attachment strap 212 with the hook and loopfastener 222. The hook and loop fastener 222 is very secure in sheer andwould not have any tendency to be pulled off due to the compressionaround the hips or waist of the user. Thus, a quick and easy adjustmentof the position of buckle 214 is provided by simply releasing buckle 214and releasing the pressure of hip belt 210 about the waist of the usersuch that distal end 220 of attachment strap 212 can be pulled away fromproximal end 218 to release the hook and loop fastener forrepositioning. Note that buckle 214 is slidably secured to beltattachment strap 212 such that repositioning allows buckle 214 to movealong belt attachment strap 212 for adjustment purposes. Otherfasteners, such as snaps, may alternatively be used.

Referring now to FIGS. 16A through 16C, an accessory coupler of thepresent invention will now be discussed. A pack belt 224 is provided.Pack belt 224 may be similar to hip belt 210 discussed above. Pack belt224 includes a flexible outer shell with inner padding to be securedabout the waist and hips of a user. Pack belt 224 may be part of alarger pack system such as a backpack or may be for use with anaccessory bag 226, leg bags, or other accessory item. A belt strap 228with a buckle 230 is provided at the first and second ends of pack belt224 to secure the belt about the waist of the user. An adjustmentmechanism may be used such as is known in the art or such as thatdiscussed above in connection with FIG. 15. Belt strap 228 is preferablyconstructed of a non-stretch nylon webbing material. Buckle 230 ispreferably of molded plastic.

Pack belt 224 includes upper and lower stay straps 232 and 234 thatprovide stay loops 236. Upper and lower stay straps 232 and 234 arepreferably constructed of nylon webbing material in elongate straps thatextend along the length of pack belt 224, the upper stay strap spacedabove the lower stay strap. Stay loops 236 are created by stitchingupper and lower stay straps at intervals along their length so as tocreate stay loops 236. Accessory straps may pass under loops 236 top tobottom or bottom to top between stay straps 232 and 234 and the outerside of pack belt 224. Stay loops 236 are preferably snug against theouter side of pack belt 224, but alternatively, could be provided withextra strap material such that they bulge outwardly from pack belt 224.

Accessory bag 226, as shown in the illustrations of FIGS. 16A through16C is simply for illustrative purposes. Any accessory with the couplingsystem described herein falls within the present invention. Accessorybag 226 may be used to hold various items that the user wishes to carry.Thus, the shape and dimensions of accessory bag 226 or other accessorythat may include such a coupling system depend upon the use for whichthe bag or holder is contemplated. For example, accessory bag 226 mayalso include external pockets for a water bottle, ammunition, tools, orother uses. Alternatively, the coupling system may be secured to a loopor sleeve for holding tools or other items.

The coupling system of accessory bag 226 includes an accessoryattachment strap 238 having a proximal end 240 and a distal end 242.Proximal end 240 is fixedly secured to the back side of accessory bag226. In the preferred embodiment, such fixed attachment is by stitchingof the webbing material of accessory attachment strap 238 to the backside of bag 226. The underside of the distal end 242 of attachment strap238 includes a hook and loop fastener 244. A mating hook and loopfastener is also secured to the back side of bag 226 for engagementtherewith. An accessory loop 246 is also provided, fixedly attached tothe back side of bag 226. In the preferred embodiment, accessory loop246 is secured beneath the proximal end 240 of attachment strap 238.Accessory loop 246 preferably extends transverse to the longitudinalaxis of accessory attachment strap 238 and is stitched so as to providea sleeve through which distal end 242 of attachment strap 238 mayextend. By extending distal end 242 through accessory loop 246, a loopis created between the fixed attachment of proximal end 240 ofattachment strap 238 and accessory loop 246. As seen in FIG. 16C, twoaccessory attachment straps and accessory loops are preferably used onthe back side of bag 226 for stable attachment of the bag to pack belt224.

The spacing of accessory attachment strap 238 and accessory loops 246 issuch that they may be conveniently engaged with stay loops 236 of upperand lower stay straps 232 and 234. As seen in FIG. 16A, accessoryattachment strap 238 may be extended through a stay loop 236 of upperstay strap 232. After which accessory attachment strap 238 extendsthrough accessory loop 246 and then through a stay loop 236 of lowerstay strap 234. After extending through lower stay strap 234, distal end242 may be secured to the back side of accessory bag 226 with hook andloop fastener 244. Thus, accessory bag 226 is held secure to pack belt224. Note that by extending accessory attachment strap 238 throughaccessory loop 246, accessory bag 226 is more securely held to pack belt224. Thus, if an outward force is applied to accessory bag 226 away frompack belt 224, attachment strap 238 is unlikely to simply slide out ofstay loops 236 since separation of hook and loop fastener 244 is not aseasily accomplished with accessory loop 246 holding the strap in place.Thus, the hook and loop fastener 244 must more substantially beseparated in sheer which is more difficult than simply pulling it apartby applying a force normal to the surfaces. Thus, in an alternateembodiment, an additional accessory loop 246 may also be secured toaccessory bag 226 below lower stay strap 234.

Further, in an alternate attachment arrangement, shown in FIG. 16B,lower stay strap 234 may be bypassed with distal end 242 simplyattaching to hook and loop fastener 244 after extending throughaccessory loop 246.

As mentioned above, this attachment system described in FIGS. 16Athrough 16C may be used for bags or other devices to securely hold anaccessory to pack belt 224. Furthermore, the system may be used withother harness systems than pack belt 224. For example, stay loops 236could be provided on shoulder straps to secure an accessory to the frontor back of such straps.

The basic coupler system of the present invention is further set forthin alternate embodiments shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B. In FIG. 17A, astrap extends upwardly from a coupler. This may be a suspender orshoulder strap, for example. In FIG. 17B, a pack accessory is suspendeddownwardly from a coupler 252′. Such pack accessory may be a leg pack,for example.

Referring first to FIG. 17A, a hip belt 248 is provided similar to thatdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 16A and 16B. Hip belt 248includes a covering and a padding for surrounding the waist of a user. Apack accessory 250 is to be attached to hip belt 248 with a coupler 252.

Hip belt 248 includes an upper stay strap 254 and a lower stay strap256. Stay straps 254 and 256 form attachment loops 258 extendinglongitudinally around at least a portion of hip belt 248 in a mannersimilar to that described above in connection with FIGS. 16A and 16B.Thus, stay straps 254 and 256 are preferably constructed of nylonwebbing material that is stitched at intervals around hip belt 248 toform attachment loops 258. The straps are separated vertically, butpreferably run generally parallel one to another.

A coupler 252 with a coupler strap 260 is provided for securing the packaccessory 250 to hip belt 248. Coupler strap 260 includes a proximal end262 with a ring 264 attached thereto. Ring 264 provides a place to whicha clip 266 may be attached for securement of pack accessory 250. Acoupler loop 268 is secured near proximal end 262, but runs transverseto the longitudinal axis of coupler strap 260 such that a portion ofcoupler strap 260 may extend therethrough as it is looped around. Thedistal end 270 folds on to the back side of proximal end 262 and the twoare secured together with a hook and loop fastener 272. Thus, theoverall configuration of coupler strap 260 in combination with coupler268 form somewhat of a “figure 8” or a “B” shape.

The attachment of coupler 252 to hip belt 248 will now be described.Distal end 270 of coupler strap 260 is threaded up through lower staystrap 256, through coupler loop 268 than through upper stay strap 254.Coupler strap 260 extends through attachment loops 258 on upper andlower stay straps 254 and 256. Distal end 270 of coupler strap 260 isthen looped through ring 264 and laid against proximal end 262 such thatboth sides of hook and loop fastener 272 engage each other, one sidebeing secured to proximal end 262 while the other side is secured todistal end 270.

A force may be applied on ring 262 by clip 266 from accessory 250.However, the load is sufficiently secure due to the looping of couplerstrap 260. Any force on distal end 270 of coupler strap 260 is in sheer,which hook and loop fastener 272 is quite adequate to deal with.

FIG. 17B illustrates an alternate inverted use of coupler 252′. Pleasenote that that the looping of coupler strap 260′ is essentially the sameas that described above in connection with FIG. 17A except that itstarts with attachment loop 258′ of upper stay strap 254′ such that itextends from top to bottom rather than from bottom to top. Note that inFIG. 17B, the numbering is essentially the same as that for FIG. 17Aexcept for the use of the prime symbol after each number. In thisinstance, a buckle 264′ is used in place of ring 264 for securement of apack accessory below hip belt 248′. Such pack accessory may be a leg bagor the securement of the lower end of a backpack. Once again, the forceson coupler 252′ are such that the Velcro attachment is sufficient towithstand the sheer forces involved once coupler strap 260′ is properlylooped about attachment loops 258′ and coupler loop 268′.

Please note that all of the embodiments described herein take advantageof the fact that the fastener that secures the straps together is strongin sheer. Thus, combined with the coupler loops and the attachment loopsa secure flexible attachment is achieved that is inexpensive tomanufacture, durable, and easy to use. The user can simply pull thedistal end of the coupler strap away from the proximal end to separatethe hook and loop fastener after which the strap can be pulled out fromthe attachment loops and the coupler loop. The positioning is thenpossible on a different area of the pack belt or harness system.

While preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated anddescribed, as noted above, many changes can be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the couplersmay be used to attach items other than bags, such as equipment to becarried. Alternatively, fasteners other than the “hook and loop” varietymay be used. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited bythe disclosure of the preferred embodiment. Instead, the inventionshould be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

1. An attachment device for securing an accessory to a pack systemhaving a first stay loop, the attachment device comprising: a. a firststrap secured to the accessory, said first strap being flexible andhaving a width sufficiently narrow to be insertable through the firststay loop; b. an accessory loop secured adjacent said first strap, saidaccessory loop being positionable adjacent the first stay loop; andfurther c. wherein said first strap is routed through said first stayloop and through said accessory loop for attachment of the accessory tothe pack system.
 2. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein said firststrap includes a proximal end secured to the accessory and a distal end,the attachment system further comprising a releasable fastener securedto the distal end of said first strap.
 3. The attachment device of claim2, wherein said releasable fastener comprises a hook and loop fastener.4. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein said releasable fastener issecurable to the accessory after being routed through said accessoryloop.
 5. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein said releasablefastener is securable to said first strap after being routed throughsaid accessory loop, said first strap forming a loop overlapping back onitself.
 6. The attachment device of claim 5, wherein the pack systemincludes a second stay loop, and further wherein said first strap isrouted through the second stay loop after being routed through saidaccessory loop.
 7. The attachment device of claim 2, wherein the packsystem includes a second stay loop, and further wherein said first strapis routed through the second stay loop after being routed through saidaccessory loop.
 8. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the packsystem includes a second stay loop, and further wherein said first strapis routed through the second stay loop after being routed through saidaccessory loop.
 9. The attachment device of claim 1, wherein the packsystem has a second stay loop spaced from said first stay loop, saidattachment device further comprising: a. a second strap secured to theaccessory, said second strap being flexible and having a widthsufficiently narrow to be insertable through the second stay loop; b. asecond accessory loop secured adjacent said second strap, said secondaccessory loop being positionable adjacent said second stay loop; andfurther c. wherein said second strap is routed through said second stayloop and through said second accessory loop for attachment of theaccessory to the pack system.
 10. A modular pack comprising: a. a hipbelt having: i. an upper stay strap secured to said hip belt, said upperstay strap forming attachment loops; and ii. a lower stay strap securedto said hip belt below said upper stay strap, said lower stay strapforming attachment loops; and b. a pack accessory having: i. anattachment strap with a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal endof said attachment strap being secured to said pack accessory, saiddistal end having a fastener thereon, said attachment strap extendingtransverse to said upper and lower stay straps and being routablethrough said upper and lower stay straps; and ii. an accessory loopsecured to said pack accessory, said accessory loop being positionablebetween said upper and lower stay straps such that said attachment strapis routable through said accessory loop between said upper and lowerstay straps.
 11. The modular pack of claim 10, wherein said attachmentstrap is looped back onto itself and held with said fastener at saiddistal end thereof.
 12. The modular pack of claim 11, wherein said packaccessory comprises a buckle secured to said proximal end of saidattachment strap.
 13. The modular pack of claim 11, wherein said packaccessory comprises a ring secured to said proximal end of saidattachment strap.
 14. The modular pack of claim 10, wherein saidaccessory comprises a bag secured to said proximal end of saidattachment strap.
 15. The modular pack of claim 14, wherein said distalend of said attachment strap is releaseably fastened to said bag afterextending through said accessory loop.
 16. The modular pack of claim 10,further comprising: a. a second attachment strap with a proximal end anda distal end, said proximal end of said second attachment strap beingsecured to said pack accessory, said distal end having a fastenerthereon, said attachment strap extending transverse to said upper andlower stay straps and being routable through said upper and lower staystraps; and b. a second accessory loop secured to said pack accessory,said second accessory loop being positionable between said upper andlower stay straps such that said attachment strap is routable throughsaid second accessory loop between said upper and lower stay straps. 17.The modular pack of claim 10, wherein said hip belt further comprises anadjustable attachment strap and a buckle for securing said hip beltabout the waist of a user, said strap having a hook and loop fastenermaterial secured thereon, a mating hook and loop fastener material beingsecured to an inner side of said hip belt, pressure on the inner side ofsaid hip belt adding to the secure attachment of said hook and loopmaterial to keep said attachment strap securely in place during use. 18.A hip belt comprising: a. an elongate member having a length sufficientto extend along a user's back and hips, said elongate member havingfirst and second ends, an inner side, and an outer side; b. a firststrap having a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end beingsecured to said first end of said elongate member, said distal endhaving a hook and loop material thereon; c. a buckle slidably engagedwith said first strap; and further d. wherein said elongate memberincludes a hook and loop material secured to said inner side of saidfirst end of said elongate member, said material being engageable withsaid distal end of said first strap, pressure between said elongatemember and the user securely holding said first strap in place.
 19. Thehip belt of claim 18, further comprising a second strap having aproximal end and a distal end, said proximal end being secured to saidsecond end of said elongate member, said distal end having a hook andloop material thereon; said elongate member second end having a matinghook and loop material thereon.
 20. The hip belt of claim 18, furthercomprising a stay strap secured to said outer side of said elongatemember, said stay strap forming loops thereon; said hip belt furthercomprising an accessory coupler comprising: a. an attachment strapdimensioned to extend through said stay loops; and b. an accessory loop,through which said attachment strap extends after passing through atleast one stay loop.